2017 Mazda Axela Review

Detailed Review

The first generation of the Mazda Axela codenamed BK launched its production in 2003 and continued up to 2008. From 2008 to 2013, the second generation of the Axela designated as BL was manufactured. The third generation of the Axela dubbed BM/BN was in production from 2013 to 2019. The Mazda Axela is currently in its fourth iteration known as BP.

The 2017 Mazda Axela is available with three engine options, a 1.5 L (Petrol), a 2.0 L (hybrid), and a 2.2 L (Diesel) linked to either a 6-speed manual transmission or 6-speed automatic transmission. Click here to purchase the 2017 Mazda Axela Buyer’s Guide. 

2017 Mazda Axela Grades

1. Mazda Axela Hybrid C- This grade comes with a smartphone integration, privacy glass, power mirrors, and multiple airbags.
2. Mazda Axela Hybrid S L Package- This grade has a centralized door lock, a 12-volt power output, and a keyless entry.
3. Mazda Axela Hybrid S Proactive- This grade boasts power windows, an Isofix bar, and an anti-lock braking system.
4. Mazda Axela 15 C- This grade features AM/FM Radio, electronic brake force distribution, and a brake assist.
5. Mazda Axela 15 S- This grade is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, adaptive cruise control, and LED daytime running lights.
6. Mazda Axela 15 S L Package- This grade is fitted with smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and a push-start button.
7. Mazda Axela 15 S Proactive- This grade comes with an electronic brake force distribution, a 12-volt power output, and power windows.
8. Mazda Axela 15 XD- This grade has adaptive cruise control, a navigation system, and a power-assisted steering wheel.
9. Mazda Axela Sport 15 C- This grade boasts privacy glass, an anti-lock braking system, and power mirrors.
10. Mazda Axela Sport 15 S- This grade features a keyless entry, fog lights, and a centralized door lock.
11. Mazda Axela Sport 15 S L Package- This grade is equipped with a navigation system, a push-start button, and a brake assist.
12. Mazda Axela Sport 15 S Proactive- This grade is fitted with Stability Control, Apple Car Play, and Android Auto.
13. Mazda Axela Sport 15 XD- This grade comes with climate control, heated seats, and a power-assisted steering wheel.
14. Mazda Axela 22 XD L Package- This grade has Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and a 12-volt power output.
15. Mazda Axela 22 XD Proactive- This grade boasts LED daytime running lights, cruise control, and multiple airbags

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2017 Mazda Axela has an attractive interior that boasts high-quality materials with a well-crafted finish. The attention to detail and the uncluttered layout make the cabin look very beautiful. The first row of both the hatchback and sedan have ample legroom and the comfy seats can be reclined to meet a desired position.

The second row of the Sedan boasts sufficient knee room and headroom. However, average size people will find the hatchback comfortable. Taller passengers will find it crampy owing to its slanting roofline that limits the space for the head.

Cabin Storage

The 2017 Mazda Axela features multiple storage compartments intended to improve the ride comfort of the passengers. The first row of both the hatchback and sedan has a center console, door panel storage, a glove box, and two cupholders. Two cupholders mounted on the armrest, jacket pockets, and door pockets are included in the second row.

Boot Space

The 2017 Mazda Axela (Hatchback and Sedan) has ample boot space that can accommodate small and medium-sized goods. To create extra space, the rear seats can be folded.

Exterior

The 2017 Mazda Axela does not have any kind of compromise when it comes to its exterior styling. Elegance and refinement are the two words that can best be used to describe this car. Its front end is distinguishable through Mazda’s signature design “Kodo”  implying the soul of motion. Both the sedan and hatchback have a sloping bonnet with sculpted lines that improve the aerodynamics. The Mazda’s brand logo is adorned on a grille that has a frame with chrome embellishments. LED daytime running lights as well as the headlights lend it an upscale look. Fog lights and air vents are encompassed in the lower fascia.

The side profile of the two body designs is attractive courtesy of the alloy wheels that coat attention and the nicely done contours. The mirror caps and door handles are body-colored. Both the Sedan and the hatchback have a sloping roofline. The hatchback’s roofline is well complemented by a roof spoiler that enhances the sportiness of the Axela. The sedan does not have a roof spoiler but depending on the owner’s preference, it can be installed.

Both the hatchback and the sedan have angular tail lights and turn signals. The major difference is that the hatchback has a bigger tailgate that is actuated electronically while the sedan has a trunk whose opening is not as wide as that of the hatchback.

2017 Mazda Axela Safety Features

The 2017 Mazda Axela features multiple airbags, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, hill start assist, traction control, a rearview camera, stability control, brake assist, and an anti-lock braking system.

2017 Mazda Axela Fuel Consumption

2017 Mazda Axela 1.5 L petrol engine consumption- 14.7 km/l on average

2017 Mazda Axela 2.0 L hybrid engine consumption- 26.8  km/l on average

2017 Mazda Axela 2.2 L diesel engine consumption- 20.8 km/l on average

2017 Mazda Axela Acceleration

2017 Mazda Axela 1.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.8 secs

2017 Mazda Axela 2.0 L hybrid engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.3 secs

2017 Mazda Axela 2.2 L diesel engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8.7 secs

The 2017 Mazda Axela Fuel Tank Capacity: 51 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2017 Mazda Axela has a ground clearance of 6.1 inches which is below the required standard of 6.5 inches on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Mazda Axela spare parts are easily available in major towns. However, its body components are somewhat expensive

Stability And Handling

The 2017 Mazda Axela is very agile and delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The steering wheel is power-assisted hence it gives the driver responsive feedback that makes it adapt to road curvature with no effort required. The front suspension (Macpherson struts) and the rear suspension (multi-link setup) provides a good balance between comfort and handling while at the same time cushions passengers from experiencing any kind of jerky movements.

Anti-lock braking systems and electronic brake force distribution play a big role in bringing this car to a complete halt in a matter of seconds to avoid any kind of disaster. The cabin is well-insulated to prevent outside noise from bothering the occupants.

Owing to its low ground clearance and the approach and departure angles, it is recommended to avoid driving the Axela in off-road terrains. Similar to any Mazda brand, the Axela comes standard with the SkyActiv technology that improves its fuel efficiency as well as its performance.

Reliability

The 2017 Mazda Axela is regarded as a reliable car. Its low ground clearance limits it from traversing in off-road terrains as its body components could be damaged. Brake squeaks, and failing of the door lock actuators are the most commonly reported problems in the Axela. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid encountering such problems.

Click here to purchase the 2017 Mazda Axela Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Average

Mazda Axela Competitors: Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, Subaru Impreza, and Toyota Auris.

What we like about the 2017 Mazda Axela

Precise handling when going around turns

Quick acceleration

Refined interior

Advanced safety features

What we don’t

The sedan has less trunk space compared to its rivals

Low ground clearance

Conclusion

The 2017 Mazda Axela qualifies to be referred as an epitome of luxury in the hatchback category as it does not compromise on anything when it comes to its interior and exterior styling. City dwellers will find it ideal as their daily driver because of its sleek and dynamic design as well as fuel efficiency. Its only drawback is that it cannot exploit the off-road terrain as you risk damaging its body components which could be very expensive to either repair or replace them. Folks on a tight budget will have to work extra hard to own the Axela as its acquisition cost is somewhat expensive. Click here to download the 2017 Mazda Axela Owner’s Manual.